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Generous Ways to Invest Money in the New Year

Generous Ways to Invest Money in the New Year

Last updated on: August 18, 2022 at 9:36 am by Oscar Collins

Generous Ways to Invest Money in the New Year 2022-08-18T09:36:41-04:00 Oscar Collins

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Many Christians enjoy sharing God’s love by giving to others. Whether it be their time or their talents, these believers understand Christ’s command to serve the “least of these.” But what if you want to love someone by investing in not just their eternal future, but their financial future, as well? After a year like 2021, you probably know someone who could use a boost to their bank account.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to bless others — and your own family — with fiscal investments. Give gifts that keep on giving with stocks, bonds and more!

Here are just a few generous ideas to inspire your gift-giving in the new year.

1. Savings Bonds

Whether you want to invest in your own wealth or give a gift to someone else, savings bonds are a great place to put your money. Bonds are federally backed, which means whoever purchases or receives the bond will likely get their money back, plus interest.

The most common types of savings bonds are Series EE and I Bonds. The former pays a fixed rate of interest while the latter pays a variable rate, which means it’ll earn the fixed rate plus an estimated inflation rate. Most people earn more money from I Bonds. You can purchase either kind through TreasuryDirect, the Treasury Department’s official website.

2. Individual Stocks

Giving an individual stock might be slightly more exciting than savings bonds. That’s because stocks allow people to own shares of their favorite companies. Thus you can better cater to their interests and give a more personalized gift this holiday season.

Most stock buying options come with fees. However, once the recipient has the stock in hand, they can watch it grow and dip with the rest of the market. This is a good opportunity for young investors to cultivate patience and discernment.

3. Mutual Funds

Maybe you’re looking for something more long-term, something that’ll earn more over five, 10 or even 50 years. In this case, you might want to invest in mutual funds. This type of investment makes a great gift for young kids who don’t yet have to worry about finances. As long as the fund performs well, their account will grow as they do.

Of course, transferring a mutual fund can be tedious depending on the company you choose to work with. However, if you’re there for the long haul, this might be the best option for you or whomever you decide to gift the fund to.

4. Gifts that Appreciate

The past year has been one of chaos and confusion for many people. From losing loved ones to COVID-19 to working and learning from home, Americans could use a break — or maybe just a bit more self-care.

Prioritize self-generosity in the new year and treat yourself to something new. Maybe you’ve been eyeing a classic car that needs some TLC or even a yacht if you have a little more to spend. Something like a new watch might be a nice way to show yourself some love. Choose a model that will appreciate with time so your gift becomes a long-term investment that eventually earns more than you paid for it.

5. Donations and Offerings

Luke 6:31 reminds the church to “do to others as you would have them do to you.” Of course, you can’t buy everyone the same gifts you give yourself. That’s where donations and offerings come in handy.

Whether you give to a church, missionary or organization that’s close to your heart, investing in something bigger than yourself will give you a sense of meaning because, in the end, you’re investing in furthering Christ’s kingdom. Remember that these donations are tax-deductible. Claim them whenever you do your taxes to practice good stewardship with the money God has entrusted to you.

No Strings Attached

In 2 Corinthians, Paul advises the church to give “not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” In other words, you should give freely, without expecting anything in return. Sure, a thank you might be nice, but your loved ones shouldn’t feel the need to pay you back when you invest in their financial future.

If you give cheerfully, no strings attached, God promises to bless you. Sow abundantly? Reap abundantly, and watch God change hearts and souls in the process.

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